Summer Institute
Sister Dale Brown Summer Institute 2025
June 9th - June 13th
The University of San Diego - San Diego, CA
This immersive training, led by seasoned experts, is designed to guide you through the twists and turns of financial aid policies, best practices, and compliance updates. Whether you're a newcomer or a seasoned pro, you'll find valuable insights and practical knowledge to help you thrive in this dynamic field.
Why Join This Adventure?
Navigate the financial aid jungle with expert-led sessions 
Gain hands-on training tailored to different experience levels
Conquer regulatory challenges and earn a credential in select NASFAA areas
Connect with colleagues from across the region in a fun, supportive environmentSummer Institute Track Descriptions:
The WASFAA Summer Institute offers three tailored learning tracks—Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced—designed to support financial aid professionals at every stage of their career. Each track includes opportunities to earn NASFAA U credentials and participate in general sessions aligned with NASFAA’s financial aid competency framework, covering topics like laws and regulations, leadership, technology, and the business of education.
| Beginner Designed for early-career financial aid professionals or those new to the field, this track builds a strong foundation in the principles and practices of student aid administration. NASFAA U Credential Opportunities -Application Processing -Cost of Attendance -Need Analysis -Packaging -Pell Grant -Satisfactory Academic Progress In addition to track-specific coursework, all attendees will participate in general sessions aligned with NASFAA’s financial aid competency framework, including topics like laws and regulations, customer service, career development, technological proficiency, leadership skills, and the business of education. Whether you're in your first role or transitioning into financial aid, this track offers the knowledge and confidence to navigate the fundamentals of the profession | Intermediate Geared toward professionals with at least three years of experience in financial aid or a related area, this track deepens understanding of key policies and regulations. NASFAA U Credential Opportunities -Application Processing -Cost of Attendance -Need Analysis -R2T4 -Loans All participants will also attend general sessions designed around NASFAA’s financial aid competency framework, providing broader professional development in areas such as laws and regulations, leadership, technology, and the business of education. This track is ideal for those ready to take on more complex responsibilities or sharpen their technical skills. | Advanced Geared toward professionals with at least three years of experience in financial aid or a related area, this track deepens understanding of key policies and regulations. NASFAA U Credential Opportunities -Application Processing -Cost of Attendance -Need Analysis -R2T4 -Loans In addition to their credential work, advanced participants will engage in general sessions aligned with the NASFAA’s financial aid competency framework, covering areas such as leadership skills, technological proficiency, laws and regulations, and the business of education. This track is perfect for those leading teams, managing operations, or shaping policy on their campuses. |
| Registration Type | Registration Fee* | |
| $900 | |
| $1,050 | |
| $600 | |
| $750 | |
| $50 |
*Fees will increase for late registration starting May 10th
Scholarships Available:
We have 2 scholarships available for Summer Institute and WASFAA members are invited to apply. The scholarship covers the registration fee, which includes on-campus housing. The deadline to apply has passed.
Draft Agenda and Session Start/End Times:Sessions will start at 1pm Monday, June 9th and end at noon on Friday, June 13. Please book travel to allow for attendance to all sessions. Attendees must be present for sessions to be eligible for NASFAA U Credential tests.
Our schedule is coming together and we now have a draft available!
Meal Arrangements:
Meals are partially included in the event, with some provided through USD Food Service and others hosted by WASFAA. However, attendees will also need to plan for a few meals on their own. More information on meals can be found here.
Housing Arrangements:
On campus housing will be provided. Particpants will be housed in apartment-style accommodations. Each apartment has two rooms, two bathrooms, and a shared community area. While each room contains two beds, we will only have two people per apartment, providing additional space and privacy. More information on meals can be found here.
Have additional questions about the 2025 WASFAA Summer Institute? Check out our helpful FAQ page for more information. Do you have questions left unanswered? Please contact the chair at sdbsi25@wasfaa.org.
Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to level up your expertise while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of San Diego. Secure your spot today and get ready for an unforgettable journey through the Wild World of Financial Aid! We can’t wait to explore with you!